BMC launches citywide drive to clear all footpaths

The civic body has launched a citywide drive to clear pavements of encroachments so Mumbaiites have the space to walk.

The civic body has launched a citywide drive to clear pavements of encroachments so Mumbaiites have the space to walk.

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The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), which initiated the drive following complaints by citizens’ groups, started clearing hawkers from pavements near Dadar station (west) on Friday.

In Andheri, where the action started on Monday, 600 hawkers near the station have been removed; more than 1,000 hawkers have been cleared in Dadar.

Next week, the BMC will focus on Ghatkopar and Chembur.

The action comes a week after HT initiated its ‘Fight for Our Footpaths’ campaign. In its October 12 edition, HT had reported on the footpath encroachments near Dadar and Kurla stations.

The spots where the drive will be conducted were shortlisted after meetings with traders and citizens’ groups. “We are trying to bring together all the stakeholders such as locals, traders, police and undertake drives for at least 10 days to make a visible difference,” said Vijay Balamwar, deputy municipal commissioner (removal of encroachments).